Critical Analysis of Texts: Poetry in French

Teacher(s)

Delsaux Olivier;

Language

French

Prerequisites

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Main themes

How is poetry different from other forms of literary expression such as novels, plays or essays? This question, which will bring students into contact with the main critiques of poetry, is the main theme in the study of poetic texts in French from the XVIth century to the present day. The course thus provides students with the necessary components to construct a critical interpretation of a poetic text, making use of formal aspects (study of verse and fixed forms, awareness of figures of style), thematic aspects (highlighting the most common issues in poetry) and historical aspects (development of poetic expression through literary history).
Practical classes (Exercises) are linked to this course to provide further practice.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	By the end of this course, students will have acquired knowledge of poetic literature and expertise in how literary texts can be analysed. They will gain knowledge of a wide range of poetic work and the ability to use the language of literary analysis (particularly figures of style and versification), together with an awareness of the place of poetry in literature.  They will acquire expertise in how to analyse a poetic text in a logical, relevant and innovative way, to produce a critical interpretation.  The combination of this knowledge and expertise will enable students  to independently undertake a literary analysis built on the relationship between internal examination of texts and awareness of their context (collection, aesthetic trends, artistic, historical and cultural context).

Content

Lectures : see Topics Covered'
Practical exercises :'
- Methodology of  textual analysis.'Session 1 : Literary texts'Session 2 : Literary analysis'Session 3 : Analytical reading ' synthesis stage'Session 4 : Analytical reading ' planning stage'Session 5 : Analytical reading 'introduction stage'
- Development of textual analysis.'Session 6 : Analytical reading 'Development and Conclusion stage'- Development of textual analysis 'Session 7 : Joint compilation of an analytical reading'Session 8 : Joint compilation of an analytical reading'Session 9 : Joint compilation of an analytical reading'Session 10 : Presentation of an analytical reading by students

Teaching methods

The formal lectures are linked to the practical exercise sessions.  Optional tutorial sessions are also organized. Please note : attendance at the practical sessions is compulsory. Students will be penalised in their continuous assessment for any unexcused absence and/or failure to submit work for the practical sessions

Other information

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Online resources

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Bibliography

• Outils critiques
Obligatoire : le Dictionnaire de poétique de Michèle Aquien (Paris, Le Livre de Poche, 1993).

Faculty or entity

ELAL